Horses are wonderful animals. 

 

They give us freedom, confidence and friendships that last a lifetime. 

 

But they are also large, powerful and unpredictable. 

 

I've ridden since childhood, worked with military horses in the Army, one memorable summer even jousted, taught first aid for years and spent time responding to emergencies both on ambulances and in the mountains. One thing is certain: 

 

Accidents happen quickly. 

 

 

In those first few moments, people often rush to help. 

 

Sometimes that's exactly the wrong thing to do. 

 

The first ten minutes after an equine accident aren't about being brave. 

 

They're about getting the priorities right. 

We’ve all seen it — a slip on wet rock, a poorly ducked branch, a flying elbow in a group shelter. Head injuries happen fast and without warning, and in remote places, it’s up to you to manage the situation until help arrives — or until you walk them out. 

 

👤 “I’m fine.” – The Famous Last Words 

Mild head injuries often look like nothing. A bit dazed, maybe a scratch or graze. But beneath that could be a concussion — a brain injury. And in rare cases, a serious or even life-threatening problem. 

 

In the hills, we take every head injury seriously. Especially if: